Tropical Smoothie King: The Better Smoothie Store

With the introduction of the Tropical Smoothie Cafe to Waukee, students at Northwest find themselves taking sides in the newest controversial debate. Smoothie King, or Tropical Smoothie?

Many of the Northwest students are patiently awaiting the grand opening of the new Tropical Smoothie in Waukee. The opening date is still not released but the Tropical Smoothie website says it will open soon. 

Students and Teachers at Northwest have already tried Tropical Smoothie because of the numerous locations around the Metro. Some of these places consist of Ankeny, Johnston, West Des Moines, etc. Tropical Smoothie has more than 1,150 locations across the US while Smoothie King isn’t far behind with 1,148 stores. The first Smoothie King opened in 1973 and Tropical Smoothie Cafes first opened in 1997. 

Smoothie King has been in Waukee since early 2017. They have remained a popular place over the past few years. “I prefer Smoothie King to Tropical Smoothie because I like the variety of the smoothies more and the flavors there taste better with their ingredients,” Stated Sophmore Jenna Newgard. 

Smoothie King is a healthier drink option than Tropical Smoothie. Smoothie King uses only organic fruits and Vegetables while Tropical Smoothie uses artificial flavoring, colors, and preservatives. Both chains use natural sweeteners. Smoothie King uses stevia which is a natural sweetener and Tropical Smoothie uses Turbinado. 

Smoothie King prices vary from their kid’s smoothie of 4.09$ to their whopping 40oz, 10.69$ smoothies. Smoothie King also has a variety of snacks and supplements you can choose from. The main goal of Smoothie King is to create a healthier lifestyle. 

While Tropical Smoothie Cafe prices vary between 2.99$ kids sizes to 4.99$ 24oz smoothies. A downside of Tropical Smoothie Cafe is they only have the adult size and that size only goes up to 24oz. Tropical Smoothie Cafe also has a much larger food menu. Their food consists of tacos, flatbreads, wraps, sandwiches, salads and all-day breakfast. “I prefer tropical smoothies because they have more food options, and I think their smoothies are better,” sophomore Ella Rinken Stated. 

“I think Tropical Smoothie is much more officiant and has better customer service than Smoothie King,” Sophomore Nolan Craig explained. 

When it comes down to it the most important thing is the taste. Each person is different, and everyone has different opinions on the smoothie place they prefer.